RULE XII - GENERAL DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS

SECTION 1201. General Requirements

1. Buildings proposed for construction shall comply with all the regulations and specificationsincluding safety standards embodied in the Administrative Order of DOLE herein set forthgoverning quality, characteristics and properties of materials, methods of design andconstruction, type of occupancy and classification.2. The various applicable referral codes shall supplementally guide the planning, design, layout,content, construction, location/siting, installation and maintenance of all buildings/structures.3. For the guidance of the general public, the Secretary shall periodically issue generic lists ofapproved, strictly regulated or banned items, procedures, usages and the like relative to thedesign, construction and use/occupancy of buildings/structures:a. Materials for construction;b. Processes for the production of materials, their installation or construction;c.

Procedures/methodologies/systems for both design and construction;

d. Organizational structures/hierarchies for construction;

e. Types of occupancy; andf.

Classifications relative to design, construction and occupancy.

4. All buildings/structures shall be placed in or upon private property or duly designated publicland and shall be securely constructed in conformance with the requirements of the Code.SECTION 1202. Excavation, Foundation, and Retaining Walls1. Subject to the provisions of Articles 684 to 686 of the Civil Code of the Philippines on lateraland subjacent support, the design and quality of materials used structurally in excavation,footings, and in foundations shall conform to accepted engineering practice.2.

Excavation and Fills

a. Excavation and fills for buildings or structures shall be so constructed or protected thatthey do not endanger life or property.b. Whenever the depth of excavation for any construction is such that the lateral andsubjacent support of the adjoining property or existing structure thereon would beaffected in a manner that the stability or safety of the same is endangered, the personundertaking or causing the excavation to be undertaken shall be responsible for theexpense of underpinning or extending the foundation or footings of the aforementionedproperty or structure.c.

Excavation and other similar disturbances made on public property shall, unlessotherwise excluded by the Building Official, be restored immediately to its former

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condition within 48 hours from the start of such excavation and disturbances bywhosoever caused such excavation or disturbance.d. Before undertaking excavation works, drilling or otherwise disturbing the ground, thepersons doing the work, or causing such work to be done, shall contact all publicutilities/services to determine the possible location of underground facilities, to avoidhazard to public safety, health and welfare caused by the inadvertent disruption of suchfacilities.e. Protection of Adjoining Property. Any person making or causing an excavation to bemade below existing grade shall protect the excavation so that the soil of adjoiningproperty will not cave-in or settle and shall defray the cost of underpinning or extendingthe foundation of buildings on adjoining properties. Before commencing the excavation,the person making or causing the excavation to be made shall notify in writing the ownersof adjoining buildings not less than ten (10) days before such excavation is to be madeand that the adjoining buildings will be protected by him. The owners of the adjoiningproperties shall be given access to the excavation for the purpose of verifying if theirproperties are sufficiently protected by the person making the excavation. Likewise, theperson causing such excavation shall be given access to enter the adjoining property forthe purpose of physical examination of such property, prior to the commencement and atreasonable periods during the progress of excavation. If the necessary consent is notaccorded to the person making the excavation, then it shall be the duty of the personrefusing such permission to protect his buildings or structure. The person causing theexcavation shall not be responsible for damages on account of such refusal by theadjoining property owner to permit access for inspection. In case there is a party wallalong a lot line of the premises where an excavation is being made, the person causingthe excavation to be made shall at his own expense, preserve such party wall in as safea condition as it was before the excavation was commenced and shall, when necessary,underpin and support the same by adequate methods.f.

At an early stage, and before work is commenced, a careful and accurate survey of anycracks in the existing adjoining owners premises should be made, and, where possible,photographs should be taken, recorded, and agreed between the parties concerned.Where necessary, tell-tales should be fixed to cracks with the object of showing anyfurther movements during demolition and excavation. Tell-tales should preferably be inthe form of fixed points built in on each side of the crack and should be capable of beingmeasured by a micrometer or vernier caliper. They should be of such a nature that bothhorizontal and vertical movements could be recorded.

g. Cut slopes for permanent excavations shall not be steeper than two (2) horizontal to one(1) vertical and slopes for permanent fills shall not be steeper than two (2) horizontal toone (1) vertical. Deviation from the foregoing limitations for slopes shall be permittedonly upon the presentation of a geotechnical/geological investigation report acceptable tothe Building Official.h. On a large site that is at a considerable distance from the surrounding properties andpublic highways, deep excavation may be carried out in the open in bulk, leaving slopesaround the perimeter. It is important to ensure that no serious failures of the banks willoccur to endanger those working on the site or the public. The safe angle of the cut slopeshall be determined by an appropriate geotechnical/geological site investigationacceptable to the Building Official.i.

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In cases where the excavation passes through a permeable water-bearing stratum

overlying an impervious bed, a bench should be formed at the junction of the strata tocarry an intermediate intercepting drain.

j.

If groundwater is standing at a considerable head around the excavation, measures shall

be undertaken to reduce this head by a system of weepholes at the lowest 1/3 section ofthe excavation wall or by enclosing the site with suitable sheet piling or if a water-sealingstratum can be reached within a reasonable distance at the bottom of the excavation.

k.

In fine sands or silts where sheet piling alone is relied upon, it will be necessary to watchthe pumping very carefully because, in fine-grained materials, the removal of even asmall volume of water may cause blows in the bottom of the excavation or may result indisturbance to adjoining structures.

l.

Except in excavation inside sloping banks, rock, or within caissons, all excavationsshould be lined with shotcrete, boards, runners or sheet piles supported laterally, ifnecessary, by framings of wallings and struts, which may be of timber, steel, or reinforcedconcrete, to a sufficient extent to prevent the excavation from becoming dangerous to lifeor limb by movement or caving in of the adjoining soil.

m. All linings and framings should be inserted as the excavation proceeds, and should betightened up against the adjoining soil by wedging or jacking and secured by cleats orother suitable means.n. Every trench, 1.50 meters or deeper, shall be provided with suitable means of exit orescape at least every 7.50 meters of its length.o. Where workers are employed adjacent to an excavation on work other than that directlyconnected with the excavation, sufficient railings or fences shall be provided to preventsuch workers from falling into the excavation.p. Excavations that may be left open for any length of time, periodic inspections of timberingor strutting should be made and wedges tightened as found necessary.q. In long excavation for walls, it may be found expedient and safe to arrange theexcavation in a series of alternate sections in order to avoid a long, continuousexcavation supported only on temporary strutting. Such sections should be arranged inconvenient lengths (depending on the total length to be done) and of a width sufficient toconstruct a unit of the retaining wall that will be adequate to afford permanent support tothat portion of the ground; the wall unit should be completed before proceeding with theadjacent section of the excavation.r.

Where water is encountered in excavation, a sump should be maintained below the levelof the excavation in order that surface and groundwater can be led into it and pumpedout; provided that the inflow of water does not carry much soil in suspension and doesnot require continuous pumping to keep the risk of settlement of the surrounding ground.

s.

No fill or other surcharge loads shall be placed adjacent to any building/structure unlesssuch building/structure is capable of withstanding the additional loads caused by the fill orsurcharge.

t.

Existing footings or foundations which may be affected by any excavation shall be

underpinned adequately, or otherwise protected against settlement, and shall beprotected against lateral movement.

u. Fills to be used to support the foundations of any building/structure shall be placed in

accordance with accepted engineering practice. A soil investigation report and a report ofsatisfactory placement of fill, shall be both acceptable to the Building Official.

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3. Footings, Foundations, and Retaining Walls

a. Footings and foundations shall be of the appropriate type, of adequate size, and capacityin order to safely sustain the superimposed loads under seismic or any condition ofexternal forces that may affect the safety or stability of the structure. It shall be theresponsibility of the architect and/or engineer to adopt the type and design of the same inaccordance with the standards set forth by the Secretary.b. Whenever or wherever there exist in the site of the construction an abrupt change in theground levels or level of the foundation such that instability of the soil could result,retaining walls shall be provided and such shall be of adequate design and type ofconstruction as prescribed by the Secretary.

SECTION 1203. Veneer

1. Veneer is a nonstructural facing of brick, concrete, tile, metal, plastic, glass, or other similarapproved materials attached to a backing or structural components of the building for thepurpose of ornamentation, protection, or enclosure that may be adhered, integrated, oranchored either on the interior or exterior of the building or structure.2. Design Requirements. The design of all veneer shall comply with the following:a. Veneer shall support no load other than its own weight and the vertical dead load ofveneer immediately above.b. Surfaces to which veneer is attached shall be designed to support the additional verticaland lateral loads imposed by the veneer.c.

Consideration shall be given to differential movements of the supports including those

caused by temperature changes, shrinkage, creep, and deflection.

d. Adhered veneer and its backing shall be designed to have a bond to the supportingelements sufficient to withstand shearing stresses due to their weights including seismiceffects on the total assemblage.e. Anchored veneer and its attachment shall be designed to resist horizontal forces equal totwice the weight of the veneer.f.

Anchors supports and ties shall be non-combustible and corrosion-resistant.

SECTION 1204. Enclosure of Vertical Openings

1. General. Vertical openings shall be enclosed depending upon the fire resistive requirementsof a particular type of construction as set forth in the Code.2. Elevator Enclosures. Walls and partitions enclosing elevators and escalators shall be of notless than the fire-resistive construction required under the Types of Construction. Enclosingwalls of elevator shafts may consist of wire glass set in metal frames on the entrance side

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only. Elevator shafts extending through more than two storeys shall be equipped with anapproved means of adequate ventilation to and through the main roof of the building;Provided, that in those buildings housing Groups F and G Occupancies equipped withautomatic fire-extinguishing systems throughout, enclosures shall not be required forescalators; Provided, further that the top of the escalator opening at each storey shall beprovided with a draft curtain. Such draft curtain shall enclose the perimeter of the unenclosedopening and shall extend from the ceiling downward at least 300 millimeters on all sides.Automatic sprinklers shall be provided around the perimeter of the opening and within a 600millimeters of the draft curtain. The distance between the sprinkles shall not exceed 1.80meters center-to-center.3. Other Vertical Openings. All shafts, ducts, chutes, and other vertical openings not covered inparagraph above shall have enclosing walls conforming to the requirements specified underthe type of construction of the building in which they are located. In other than Group AOccupancies, rubbish and linen chutes shall terminate in rooms separated from theremainder of the building by a One-Hour Fire-Resistive Occupancy Separation. Openingsinto the chutes shall not be located in required exit corridors or stairways.4. Air Ducts. Air ducts passing through a floor shall be enclosed in a shaft. The shaft shall beas required in this Code for vertical openings. Dampers shall be installed where ducts piercethe shaft enclosure walls. Air ducts in Group A Occupancies need not be enclosed in a shaftif conforming to the mechanical provisions of the Code.

SECTION 1205. Floor Construction

1. Floors shall be of such materials and construction as specified under Rule V - Fire Zones andFire-Resistive Standards and under Rule IV - Types of Construction.2. All floors shall be so framed and secured into the framework and supporting walls as to forman integral part of the whole building.3. The types of floor construction used shall provide means to keep the beam and girders fromlateral buckling.

SECTION 1206. Roof Construction and Covering

1. Roof Covering. Roof covering for all buildings shall be either fire-retardant or ordinarydepending upon the fire-resistive requirements of the particular type of construction. The useof combustible roof insulation shall be permitted in all types of construction provided it iscovered with approved roof covering applied directly thereto.2. Roof Trusses. All roofs shall be so framed and tied into the framework and supporting wallsso as to form an integral part of the whole building. Roof trusses shall have all joints wellfitted and shall have all tension members well tightened before any load is placed in the truss.Diagonal and sway bracing shall be used to brace all roof trusses. The allowable workingstresses of materials in trusses shall conform to the Code. Camber shall be provided toprevent sagging.3. Attics.

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a.

Access. An attic access opening shall be provided in the ceiling of the top floor ofbuildings with a combustible ceiling or roof construction. The opening shall be located ina corridor or hallway of buildings of three (3) or more storeys in height and readilyaccessible in buildings of any height. An opening shall not be less than 600 millimeterssquare or 600 millimeters in diameter. The minimum clear headroom of 800 millimetersshall be provided above the access opening. For ladder requirements, refer to thePhilippine Mechanical Engineering Code.

into horizontal areas not exceeding 250 sq. meters by fire-resistive partitions extendingfrom the ceiling to the roof. Except, that where the entire attic is equipped with approvedautomatic fire-extinguishing system, the attic space may be divided into areas not toexceed 750 sq. meters. Openings in the partitions shall be protected by self-closingdoors.

c.

Draft Stops. Regardless of the type of construction, draft stops shall be installed intrusses roofs, between roof and bottom chords or trusses, in all buildings exceeding 2000sq. meters. Draft stops shall be constructed as for attic area separations.

d. Ventilation. Enclosed attics including rafter spaces formed where ceilings are applieddirect to the underside or roof rafters shall be provided with adequate ventilationprotected against the entrance of rain.4. Roof Drainage Systema. Roof Drains. Roof drains shall be installed at low points of the roof and shall beadequate in size to discharge all tributary waters.b. Overflow Drains and Scuppers.drains shall be provided.c.

Where roof drains are required, adequate overflow

Concealed Piping. Roof drains and overflows drains, when concealed within theconstruction of the building, shall be installed in accordance with the provisions of theNational Plumbing Code.

d. Over Public Property. Roof drainage water from a building shall not be permitted to flowover public property, except for Group A and J Occupancies.5. Flashing. Flashing and counterflashing shall be provided at the juncture of the roof andvertical surfaces.SECTION 1207. Stairs, Exits, and Occupant Loads1. General. The construction of stairs and exits shall conform to the occupant loadrequirements of buildings, reviewing stands, bleachers, and grandstands.a. Determination of Occupant Loads. The occupant load permitted in any building or portionthereof shall be determined by dividing the floor area assigned to that use by the unitarea allowed per occupant as shown on Table XII.1. and as determined by the Secretary.

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i.

When the unit area per occupant for any particular occupancy is not provided for inTable XII.1., the Building Official shall determine the same based on the unit areafor occupancy, which it most nearly resembles.

ii.

The occupant load of any area having fixed seats shall be determined by thenumber of fixed seats installed. Aisles serving the fixed seats in said area shall beincluded in determining the occupant load.

iii.

The occupant load permitted in a building or portion thereof may be increased

above that specified in Table XIII.1. if the necessary exits are provided.

iv.

In determining the occupant load, all portions of a building shall be presumed to be

occupied at the same time.EXCEPTION: Accessory areas, which ordinarily are only used by persons whooccupy the main areas of occupancy, shall be provided with exits as though theywere completely occupied. However, in computing the maximum allowableoccupant load for the floor/building, the occupant load of the accessory area/s shallbe disregarded.

b. Exit Requirements. Exist requirements of a building or portion thereof used for differentpurposes shall be determined by the occupant load which gives the largest number ofpersons. No obstruction shall be placed in the required width of an exit exceptprojections permitted by the Code.c.

Posting of Room Capacity. Any room having an occupant load of more than fifty (50)where fixed seats are not installed, and which is used for classroom, assembly, or similarpurpose shall have the capacity of the room posted in a conspicuous place near the mainexit from the room.

d. Changes in Elevation. Except in Group A Occupancies, changes in floor elevations of

less than 300 millimeters along any exit serving a tributary occupant load of ten (10) ormore shall be by means of ramp.Table XII.1. General Requirements for Occupant Loads and Exits*(*In all occupancies, floors above the first (1 st) storey having an occupant load of more than ten(10) shall have at least two (2) exits)

Homes for the Aged**

(**Institutional SleepingDepartments shall be basedon one (1) occupant per11.00 sq. meters of the grossfloorarea;In-patientInstitutionalTreatmentDepartments shall be basedon one (1) occupant per22.00 sq. meters of grossfloor area)Nurseries for Children

2. Exitsa. Number of Exits. Every building or usable portion thereof shall have at least one (1) exit.In all occupancies, floors above the first storey having an occupant load of more than ten(10) shall not have less than two (2) exits. Each mezzanine floor used for other thanstorage purposes, if greater in area than 185 sq. meters or more than 18.00 meters inany dimension, shall have at least two (2) stairways to an adjacent floor. Every storey orportion thereof, having an occupant load of 500 to 999 shall have at least three (3) exits.Every storey or portion thereof having an occupant load of one thousand (1000) or moreshall have at least four (4) exits. The number of exits required from any storey of abuilding shall be determined by using the occupant loads of floors which exit through thelevel under consideration as follows: 50% of the occupant load in the first adjacent storeyabove (and the first adjacent storey below, when a storey below exits through the levelunder consideration) and 25% of the occupant load in the storey immediately beyond thefirst adjacent storey. The maximum number of exits required for any storey shall bemaintained until egress is provided from the structures. For purposes of this Sectionbasement or cellars and occupied roofs shall be provided with exits as required for

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storeys. Floors above the second storey, basements and cellars used for other thanservice of the building shall have not less than two (2) exits.b. Width. The total width of exits in meters shall not be less than the total occupant loadserved divided by one hundred sixty five (165). Such width of exits shall be dividedapproximately equally among the separate exits. The total exit width required from anystorey of a building shall be determined by using the occupant load of that storey plus thepercentage of the occupant loads of floors which exits through the level underconsideration as follows: 50% of the occupant load in the first adjacent storey above(and the first adjacent storey below when a storey below exits through the level underconsideration) and 25% of the occupant load in the storey immediately beyond the firstadjacent storey. The maximum exit width from any storey of a building shall bemaintained.c.

Arrangement of Exits.If only two (2) exits are required, they shall be placed a distanceapart to not less than one-fifth (1/5) of the perimeter of the area served measured in astraight line between exits. Where three (3) or more exits are required, they shall bearranged a reasonable distance apart so that if one becomes blocked, the others will beavailable.

d. Distance to Exits. No point in a building without a sprinkler system shall be more than45.00 meters from an exterior exit door, a horizontal exit, exit passageway, or anenclosed stairway, measured along the line of travel. In a building equipped with acomplete automatic fire extinguishing system, the distance from exits may be increasedto 60.00 meters.3.

Doors. The provisions herein shall apply to every exit door serving an area having anoccupant load of more than ten (10), or serving hazardous rooms or areas.a. Swing. Exit door shall swing in the direction of exit travel when serving any hazardousareas or when serving an occupant load of fifty (50) or more. Double acting doors shallnot be used as exits serving a tributary occupant load of more than one hundred (100);nor shall they be used as a part of fire assembly, nor equipped with panic hardware. Adouble acting door shall be provided with a view panel of not less than 1,300 sq.centimeters.b. Type of Lock or Latch. Exit door shall be openable from the inside without the use of akey or any special knowledge or effort: Except, that this requirement shall not apply toexterior exit doors in a Group E or F Occupancy if there is a conspicuous, readily visibleand durable sign on or adjacent to the door, stating that the door is to remain unlockedduring business hours. The locking device must be of a type that will readily bedistinguishable as locked. Flush bolts or surface bolts are prohibited.c.

Width and Height. Every required exit doorway shall be of a size as to permit theinstallation of a door not less than 900 millimeters in width and not less than 2.00 metersin height. When installed in exit doorways, exit doors shall be capable of opening at least90 degrees and shall be so mounted that the clear width of the exitway is not less than700 millimeters. In computing the required exit width the net dimension of the exitwayshall be used.

d. Door Leaf Width. No leaf of an exit door shall exceed 1.20 meters in width.e. Special Doors. Revolving, sliding, and overhead doors shall not be used as requiredexits.

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f.

Egress from Door. Every required exit door shall give immediate access to an approvedmeans of egress from the building.

g. Change in Floor Level at Doors. Regardless of the occupant load, there shall be a flooror landing on each side of an exit door. The floor or landing shall be leveled with, or notmore than 50 millimeters lower than the threshold of the doorway: Except, that in GroupA and B Occupancies, a door may open on the top step of a flight of stairs or an exteriorlanding provided the door does not swing over the top step or exterior landing and thelanding is not more than 200 millimeters below the floor level.h. Door Identification. Glass doors shall conform to the requirements in Section 1802.Other exit doors shall be so marked that they are readily distinguishable from theadjacent construction.i.

Additional Doors. When additional doors are provided for egress purposes, they shallconform to all provisions in the following cases: Approved revolving doors having leaveswhich will collapse under opposing pressures may be used in exit situations; provided;that such doors have a minimum width of 2.00 meters or they are not used inoccupancies where exits are required to be equipped with panic hardware or at least oneconforming exit door is located adjacent to each revolving doors installed in a buildingand the revolving door shall not be considered to provide any exit width.

4. Corridors and Exterior Exit Balconies. The provisions herein shall apply to every corridor andexterior exit balcony serving as a required exit for an occupant load of more than ten (10).a. Width. Every corridor or exit balcony shall not be less than 1.10 meters in width.b. Projections. The required width of corridors and exterior exit balconies shall beunobstructed. Except, that trim handrails, and doors when fully opened shall not reducethe required width by more than 200 millimeters. Doors in any position shall not reducethe required width of the corridor by more than one-half (1/2).c.

Access to Exits. When more than one (1) exit is required, they shall be so arranged toallow going to either direction from any point in the corridor or exterior exit balcony to aseparate exit, except for dead ends permitted by the Code.

d. Dead Ends. Corridors and exterior exit balconies with dead ends are permitted when thedead end does not exceed 6.00 meters in length.e. Construction. Walls and ceilings of corridors shall not be less than one-hour fire-resistiveconstruction. Provided, that this requirement shall not apply to exterior exit balconies,railings, and corridors of one-storey building housing a Group E and F Occupancyoccupied by one (1) tenant only and which serves an occupant load of thirty (30) or less,nor to corridors, formed by temporary partitions. Exterior exit balconies shall not projectinto an area where protected openings are required.f.

Openings. Where corridor wall are required to be one-hour fire-resistive construction,

every interior door opening shall be protected as set forth in generally recognized andaccepted requirements for dual-purpose fire exit doors. Other interior openings exceptventilation louvers equipped with approved automatic fire shutters shall be 7 millimetersthick fixed wire glass set in steel frames. The total area of all openings other than doors,in any portion of an interior corridor wall shall not exceed 25% of the area of the corridorwall of the room being separated from the corridor.

5. Stairways. Except stairs or ladders used only to access equipment, every stairway servingany building or portion thereof shall conform to the following requirements:

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a. Width. Stairways serving an occupant load of more than fifty (50) shall not be less than1.10 meters. Stairways serving an occupant load of fifty (50) or less may be 900millimeters wide. Private stairways serving an occupant load of less than ten (10) may be750 millimeters. Trim and handrails shall not reduce the required width by more than 100millimeters.b. Rise and Run. The rise of every step in a stairway shall not exceed 200 millimeters andthe run shall not be less than 250 millimeters. The maximum variations in the height ofrisers and the width of treads in any one flight shall be 5 millimeters: Except, in case ofprivate stairways serving an occupant load of less than ten (10), the rise may be 200millimeters and the run may be 250 millimeters, except as provided in sub-paragraph (c)below.c.

Winding Stairways. In Group A Occupancy and in private stairways in Group B

Occupancies, winders may be used if the required width of run is provided at a point notmore than 300 millimeters from the side of the stairway where the treads are narrowerbut in no case shall any width of run be less than 150 millimeters at any point.

d. Circular Stairways. Circular stairs may be used as an exit provided the minimum width ofrun is not less than 250 millimeters. All treads in any one flight between landings shallhave identical dimensions within a 5 millimeters tolerance.e. Landings. Every landing shall have a dimension measured in the direction of travel equalto the width of the stairway. Such dimension need not exceed 1.20 meters when thestairs has a straight run. Landings when provided shall not be reduced in width by morethan 100 millimeters by a door when fully open.f.

Basement Stairways. Where a basement stairway and a stairway to an upper storey

terminate in the same exit enclosure, an approved barrier shall be provided to preventpersons from continuing on to the basements. Directional exit signs shall be provided asspecified in the Code.

g. Distance Between Landings. There shall be not more than 3.60 meters vertical distancebetween landings.h. Handrails. Stairways shall have handrails on each side and every stairway required to bemore than 3.00 meters in width shall be provided with not less than one intermediatehandrail for each 3.00 meters of required width. Intermediate handrails shall be spacedapproximately equal within the entire width of the stairway. Handrails shall be placed notless than 800 millimeters nor more than 900 millimeters above the nosing of treads, andends of handrails shall be returned or shall terminate in newel posts or safety terminals:Except, in the following cases: Stairways 1.10 meters or less in width and stairwaysserving one (1) individual dwelling unit in Group A or B Occupancies may have onehandrail, except that such stairway, open on one or both, sides shall have handrailsprovided on the open side or sides: or stairways having less than four (4) risers need nothave handrails.i.

Exterior Stairway Protection. All openings in the exterior wall below or within 3.00meters, measured horizontally, of an exterior exit stairway serving a building over twostoreys in height shall be protected by a self-closing fire assembly having a three-fourth hour fire-resistive rating; Except, that openings may be unprotected when two separatedexterior stairways serve an exterior exit balcony.

in this Code. Where there is enclosed usable space under the stairs the walls andsoffits of the enclosed space shall be protected on the enclosed side as requiredfor one-hour fire resistive construction.

material: Except, that on Type III buildings which do not exceed two storeys inheight, which are located in less fire-restrictive Fire Zones, as well as on Type Ibuildings which may be of wood not less than 50 millimeters in nominal thickness.Exterior stairs shall be protected as required for exterior walls due to location onproperty as specified in the Code. Exterior stairways shall not project into an areawhere openings are required to be protected. Where there is enclosed usablespace under stairs, the walls and soffits of the enclosed space shall be protectedon the enclosed side as required for one-hour fire-resistive construction.

k. Stairway to Roof. In every building four (4) or more storeys in height, one (1) stairwayshall extend to the roof unless the roof has a slope greater than 1 in 3.l.

Headroom. Every required stairway shall have a headroom clearance of not less than2.00 meters. Such clearance shall be established by measuring vertically from a planeparallel and tangent to the stairway tread nosing to the soffit above all points.

6. Ramps. A ramp conforming to the provisions of the Code may be used as an exit. The widthof ramps shall be as required for corridors.7. Horizontal Exit. If conforming to the provisions of the Code, a horizontal exit may beconsidered as the required exit. All openings in a separation wall shall be protected by a fireassembly having a fire-resistive rating of not less than one hour. A horizontal exit shall notlead into a floor area having a capacity for an occupant load not less than the occupant loadserved by such exit. The capacity shall be determined by allowing 0.30 sq. meter of net floorarea per ambulatory occupant and 1.90 sq. meters per non-ambulatory occupant. Thedispersal area into which the horizontal exit leads shall be provided with exits as required bythe Code.8. Exit Enclosure. Every interior stairway, ramp, or escalator shall be enclosed as specified inthe Code; Except, that in other than Group D Occupancies, an enclosure will not be requiredfor stairway, ramp, or escalator serving only one adjacent floor and not connected withcorridors or stairways serving other floors. Stairs in Group A Occupancies need not beenclosed.a. Enclosure walls shall not be less than two-hour fire-resistive construction. There shall beno openings into exit enclosures except exit doorways and openings in exterior walls. Allexit doors in an exit enclosure shall be appropriately protected.b. Stairway and ramp enclosures shall include landings and parts of floors connectingstairway flights and shall include a corridor on the ground floor leading from the stairwayto the exterior of the building. Enclosed corridors or passageways are not required forunenclosed stairways.c.

A stairway in an exit enclosure shall not continue below the grade level exit unless anapproved barrier is provided at the ground floor level to prevent persons from accidentallycontinuing into the basement.

d. There shall be no enclosed usable space under stairways in an exit enclosure, nor shallthe open space under such stairways be used for any purpose.

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9.

Smokeproof EnclosuresA smokeproof enclosure shall consist of a vestibule and a continuous stairway enclosedfrom the highest point to the lowest point by walls of two-hour fire-resistive construction. Inbuildings five (5) storeys or more in height, one of the required exits shall be a smokeproofenclosure.a. Stairs in smokeproof enclosures shall be of incombustible construction.b. There shall be no openings in smokeproof enclosures, except exit doorways andopenings in exterior walls. There shall be no openings directly into the interior of thebuilding. Access shall be through a vestibule with one (1) wall at least 50% open to theexterior and having an exit door from the interior of the building and an exit door leadingto the smokeproof enclosure. In lieu of a vestibule, access may be by way of an openexterior balcony of incombustible materials.c.

The opening from the building to the vestibule or balcony shall be protected with a selfclosing fire assembly having one-hour fire-resistive rating. The opening from thevestibule or balcony to the stair tower shall be protected by a self-closing fire assemblyhaving a one-hour fire-resistive rating.

d. A smokeproof enclosure shall exit into a public way or into an exit passageway leading toa public way. The exit passageway shall be without other openings and shall have walls,floors, and ceilings of two-hour fire-resistance.e. A stairway in a smokeproof enclosure shall not continue below the grade level exit unlessan approved barrier is provided at a ground floor level to prevent persons fromaccidentally walking into the basement.10. Exit Outlets, Courts, and PassagewaysEvery exit shall discharge into a public way, exit court, or exit passageway. Every exitcourt shall discharge into a public way or an exit passageway. Passageways shall be withoutopenings other than required exits and shall have walls, floors, and ceilings of the sameperiod of fire-resistance as the walls, floors and ceilings of the building but shall not be lessthan one-hour fire-resistive construction.a. WidthEvery exit court and exit passageways shall be at least as wide as the required totalwidth of the tributary exits, such required width being based on the occupant load served.The required width of exit courts or exit passageways shall be unobstructed except aspermitted in corridors. At any point where the width of an exit court is reduced from anycause, the reduction in width shall be affected gradually by a guardrail at least 900millimeters in height. The guardrail shall make an angle of not more than 30 with theaxis of the exit court.b.

SlopeThe slope of exit courts shall not exceed 1 in 10. The slope of exit passagewayshall not exceed 1 in 8.

c.

Number of ExitsEvery exit court shall be provided with exits as required in the Code.194

d. OpeningsAll openings into an exit court less than 3.00 meters wide shall be protected by fireassemblies having not less than three-fourth - hour fire-resistive rating. Except, thatopenings more than 3.00 meters above the floor of the exit court may be unprotected.11. Exit Signs and IlluminationsExits shall be illuminated at any time the building is occupied with lights having anintensity of not less than 10.7 LUX at floor level; Except, that for Group A Occupancies, theexit illumination shall be provided with separate circuits or separated sources of power (butnot necessarily separate from exit signs when these are required for exit sign illumination).12. AislesEvery portion of every building in which are installed seats, tables, merchandise,equipment, or similar materials shall be provided with aisles leading to an exit.a. WidthEvery aisle shall be not less than 800 millimeters wide if serving only one side, andnot less than 1.00 meter wide if serving both sides. Such minimum width shall bemeasured at the point farthest from an exit, cross aisle, or foyer and shall be increasedby 30 millimeters for every meter in length towards the exit, cross aisle or foyer.Side aisles shall not be less than 1.10 meters in width.b. Exit DistanceIn areas occupied by seats and in Groups H and I Occupancies without seats, the lineof travel to an exit door by an aisle shall be not more than 45.00 meters. With standardspacing, as specified in the Code, aisles shall be so located that there will be not morethan seven (7) seats between the wall and an aisle and not more than fourteen (14) seatsbetween aisles. The number of seats between aisles may be increased to thirty (30)where exits doors are provided along each side aisle of the row of seats at the rate of one(1) pair of exit doors for every five (5) rows of seats, provided further that the distancebetween seats back to back is at least 1.00 meter. Such exit doors shall provide aminimum clear width of 1.70 meters.c.

Cross AislesAisles shall terminate in a cross aisle, foyer, or exit. The width of the cross aisleshall be not less than the sum of the required width of the widest aisle plus 50% of thetotal required width of the remaining aisle leading thereto. In Groups C, H and EOccupancies, aisles shall not be provided a dead end greater than 6.00 meters in length.

d. VomitoriesVomitories connecting the foyer or main exit with the cross aisles shall have a totalwidth not less than the sum of the required width of the widest aisles leading thereto plus50% of the total required width of the remaining aisles leading thereto.e.

SlopeThe slope portion of aisles shall not exceed a fall of 1 in 8.

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13. Seatsa.

Seat SpacingWith standard seating, the spacing of rows of seats from back-to-back shall be not lessthan 840 millimeters. With continental seating, the spacing of rows of unoccupied seatsshall provide a clear width measured horizontally, as follows: 450 millimeters clear forrows of eighteen (18) seats or less; 500 millimeters clear for rows of thirty five (35) seatsor less; 525 millimeters clear for rows of forty five (45) seats or less; and 550 millimetersclear for rows of forty six (46) seats or more.

b.

WidthThe width of any seat shall be not less than 450 millimeters.

14. Reviewing Stands, Grandstands, and Bleachers

a. Height of StandsStands made of combustible framing shall be limited to eleven (11) rows or 2.70 metersin height.b. Design RequirementsThe minimum unit live load for reviewing stands, grandstands, and bleachers shallbe 500 kilograms per square meter of horizontal projection for the structure as a whole.Seat and footboards shall be 180 kilograms per linear meter. The sway force, applied toseats, shall be 35 kilograms per linear meter parallel to the seats and 15 kilograms perlinear meter perpendicular to the seats. Sway forces need not be applied simultaneouslywith other lateral forces.c.

Spacing of Seatsi.

Row SpacingThe minimum spacing of rows of seats measured from back-to-back shall be: 600millimeters for seats without backrests in open air stands; 750 millimeters for seatswith backrests; and 850 millimeters for chair seating. There shall be a space of notless than 300 millimeters between the back of each seat and the front of the seatimmediately behind it.

ii.

Rise Between Rows

The maximum rise from one row of seats to the next shall not exceed 400millimeters.

iii.

Seating CapacityFor determining the seating capacity of a stand, the width of any seat shall not beless than 450 millimeters nor more than 480 millimeters.

iv.

Number of Seats Between Aisles

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The number of seats between any seat and an aisle shall not be greater than fifteen(15) for open air stands with seats without backrests, a far open air stands withseats having backrests and seats without backrests within buildings and six (6) forseats with backrests in buildings.d. Aislesi.

Aisles RequiredAisles shall be provided in all stands; Except, that aisles may be omitted when allthe following conditions exist: Seats are without backrests; the rise from row to rowdoes not exceed 300 millimeters per row; the number of rows does not exceedeleven (11) in height; the top seating board is not over 3.00 meters above grade;and the first seating board is not more than 500 millimeters above grade.

ii.

ObstructionsNo obstruction shall be placed in the required width of any aisle or exitway.

iii.

Stairs RequiredWhen an aisle is elevated more than 200 millimeters above grade, the aisle shallbe provided with a stairway or ramp whose width is not less than the width of theaisle.

iv.

Dead EndNo vertical aisle shall have a dead end more than sixteen (16) rows in depthregardless of the number of exits required.

v.

WidthAisles shall have a minimum width of 1.10 meters.

e. Stairs and Ramps

The requirements in the Code shall apply to all stairs and ramps except for portions thatpass through the seating area.i.

Stair Rise and Run

The maximum rise of treads shall not exceed 200 millimeters and the minimumwidth of the run shall be 280 millimeters. The maximum variation in the width oftreads in any one (1) flight shall not be more than 5 millimeters and the maximumvariation in one (1) height of two (2) adjacent rises shall not exceed 5 millimeters.

HandrailsA ramp with a slope exceeding 1 in 10 shall have handrails. Stairs for stands shallhave handrails. Handrails shall conform to the requirements of the Code.

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f.

Guardrailsi.

Guardrails shall be required in all locations where the top of a seat plank is morethan 1.20 meters above the grade and at the front of stands elevated more than600 millimeters above grade. Where only sections of stands are used, guardrailsshall be provided as required in the Code.

ii.

Railings shall be 1.10 meters above the rear of a seat plank or 1.10 meters abovethe rear of the steps in an aisle when the guardrail is parallel and adjacent to theaisle; Except, that the height may be reduced to 900 millimeters for guardrailslocated in front of the grandstand.

iii.

A midrail shall be placed adjacent to any seat to limit the open distance above thetop of any part of a seat to 250 millimeters where the seat is at the extreme end orat the extreme rear of the bleachers or grandstand. The intervening space shallhave one additional rail midway in the opening; Except, that railings may be omittedwhen stands are placed directly against a wall or fence giving equivalent protection;stairs and ramps shall be provided with guardrails. Handrails at the front of standsand adjacent to an aisle shall be designed to resist a load of 75 kilograms per linearmeter applied at the top rail. Other handrails shall be designed to resist a load of40 kilograms per linear meter.

g. Foot BoardsFootboards shall be provided for all rows of seats above the third (3 rd) row or beginning atsuch point where the seating plank is more than 600 millimeters above grade.h. Exitsi.

Distance to ExitThe line of travel to an exit shall not be more than 45.00 meters. For stands withseats without backseats, this distance may be measured by direct line from a seatto the exit from the stand.

ii.

Aisle Used as Exit

An aisle may be considered as only one (1) exit unless it is continuous at both endsto a legal building exit or to a safe dispersal area.

iii.

Two (2) Exits Required

A stand with the first (1st) seating board not more than 500 millimeters above gradeof floor may be considered to have two (2) exits when the bottom of the stand isopen at both ends. Every stand or section of a stand within a building shall have atleast two means of egress when the stand accommodates more than fifty (50)persons. Every open air stand having seats without backrests shall have at leasttwo (2) means of egress when the stand accommodates more than three hundred(300) persons.

iv.

Three (3) Exits Required

Three (3) exits shall be required for stands within a building when there are morethan 300 occupants within a stand and for open air stands with seats withoutbackrests where a stand or section of a stand accommodates more than onethousand (1000) occupants.198

v.

Four (4) Exits Required

Four (4) exits shall be required when a stand or section of a stand accommodatesmore than 1000 occupants; Except, that for an open air stand with seats withoutbackrest four (4) exits need not be provided unless there are accommodations formore than three thousand (3000) occupants.

vi.

WidthThe total width of exits in meters shall not be less than the total occupant loadserved divided by one hundred sixty five (165); Except, that for open air stands withseats without backrest the total width of exits in meters shall be not less than thetotal occupant load served divided by five hundred (500) when exiting by stairs, anddivided by six hundred fifty (650) when exiting by ramps or horizontally. When bothhorizontal and stair exits are used, the total width of exits shall be determined byusing both figures as applicable. No exit shall be less than 1.10 meters in width.Exits shall be located at a reasonable distance apart. When only two (2) exits areprovided, they shall be spaced not less than one-fifth (1/5) of the perimeter apart.

i.

Securing of ChairsChairs and benches used on raised stands shall be secured to the platforms uponwhich they are placed; Except, that when less than twenty five (25) chairs are used upona single raised platform the fastening of seats to the platform may be omitted. Whenmore than five hundred (500) loose chairs are used in connection with athletic events,chairs shall be fastened together in groups of not less than three (3), and shall be tied orstaked to the ground.

j.

Safe Dispersal Area

Each safe dispersal area shall have at least two (2) exits. If more than sixthousand (6000) persons are to be accommodated within such an area, there shall be aminimum of three (3) exits, and for more than nine thousand (9000) persons there shallbe a minimum of four (4) exits. The aggregate clear width of exits from a safe dispersalarea shall be determined on the basis of not less than one (1) exit unit of 600 millimetersfor each five hundred (500) persons to be accommodated and no exit shall be less than1.10 meters in width, a reasonable distance apart that shall be spaced not less than onefifth (1/5) of the perimeter of the area apart from each other.

15. Special Hazards

a.

Boiler RoomsExcept in Group A Occupancies, every boiler room and every room containing anincinerator or liquefied petroleum gas or liquid fuel-fired equipment shall be provided withat least two (2) means of egress, one of which may be a ladder. All interior openingsshall be protected as provided for in the Code.

b. Cellulose Nitrate Handling

Film laboratories, projection rooms, and nitro-cellulose processing rooms shallhave not less than two exits.

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SECTION 1208. Skylights

1. All skylights shall be constructed with metal frames except those for Groups A and JOccupancies. Frames of skylights shall be designed to carry loads required for roofs. Allskylights, the glass of which is set at an angle of less than 45 from the horizontal, if locatedabove the first storey, shall be set at least 100 millimeters above the roof. Curbs on which theskylights rest shall be constructed of incombustible materials except for Types I or IIConstruction.2. Spacing between supports in one direction for flat wired glass in skylights shall not exceed625 millimeters. Corrugated wired glass may have supports 1.50 meters apart in thedirection of the corrugation. All glass in skylights shall be wired glass; Except, that skylightsover vertical shafts extending through two (2) or more storeys shall be glazed with plain glassas specified in the Code; Provided, that wired glass may be used in ventilation equal to notless than one-eight (1/8) the cross-sectional area of the shaft but never less than 1.20 metersprovided at the top of such shaft. Any glass not wired glass shall be protected above andbelow with a screen constructed of wire not smaller than 2.5 millimeters in diameter with amesh not larger than 25 millimeters. The screen shall be substantially supported below theglass.3. Skylights installed for the use of photographers may be constructed of metal frames and plateglass without wire netting.4. Ordinary glass may be used in the roof and skylights for greenhouses, Provided, that heightof the greenhouses at the ridge does not exceed 6.00 meters above the grade. The use ofwood in the frames of skylights will be permitted in greenhouses outside of highly restrictiveFire Zones if the height of the skylight does not exceed 6.00 meters above the grade, but inother cases metal frames and metal sash bars shall be used.5. Glass used for the transmission of light, if placed in floors or sidewalks, shall be supported bymetal or reinforced concrete frames, and such glass shall not be less than 12.5 millimeters inthickness. Any such glass over 100 sq. centimeters in area shall have wire mesh embeddedin the same or shall be provided with a wire screen underneath as specified for skylights inthe Code. All portions of the floor lights or sidewalk lights shall be of the same strength asrequired for floor or sidewalk construction, except in cases where the floor is surrounded by arailing not less 1.10 meters in height, in which case the construction shall be calculated fornot less than roof loads.SECTION 1209. Bays, Porches, and BalconiesWalls and floors in bay and oriel windows shall conform to the construction allowed forexterior walls and floors of the type of construction of the building to which they are attached.The roof covering of a bay or oriel window shall conform to the requirements of the roofing of themain roof. Exterior balconies attached to or supported by wall required to be of masonry, shallhave brackets or beams constructed of incombustible materials. Railings shall be provided forbalconies, landings, or porches which are more than 750 millimeters above grade.SECTION 1210. Penthouses and Roof Structures1. HeightNo penthouse or other projection above the roof in structures of other than Type Vconstruction shall exceed 8.40 meters above the roof when used as an enclosure for tanks or200

for elevators which run to the roof and in all other cases shall not extend more than 3.60meters in height with the roof.2.

AreaThe aggregate area of all penthouses and other roof structures shall not exceed one third(1/3) of the area of the supporting roof.

3. Prohibited UsesNo penthouse, bulkhead, or any other similar projection above the roof shall be used forpurposes other than shelter of mechanical equipment or shelter of vertical shaft openings inthe roof. A penthouse or bulkhead used for purposes other than that allowed by this Sectionshall conform to the requirements of the Code for an additional storey.4. ConstructionRoof structures shall be constructed with walls, floors, and roof as required for the mainportion of the building except in the following cases:a. On Types III and IV constructions, the exterior walls and roofs of penthouses which are1.50 meters or more from an adjacent property line may be of one-hour fire-resistiveincombustible construction.b. Walls not less than 1.50 meters from an exterior wall of a Type IV construction may be ofone-hour fire-resistive incombustible construction.The above restrictions shall not prohibit the placing of wood flagpoles or similar structureson the roof of any building.5. Towers and SpiresTowers and spires when enclosed shall have exterior walls as required for the building towhich they are attached. Towers not enclosed and which extend more than 20.00 metersabove the grade shall have their framework constructed of iron, steel, or reinforced concrete.No tower or spire shall occupy more than one-fourth (1/4) of the street frontage of anybuilding to which it is attached and in no case shall the base area exceed 150.00 sq. metersunless it conforms entirely to the type of construction requirements of the building to which itis attached and is limited in height as a main part of the building. If the area of the tower andspire exceeds 10.00 sq. meters on any horizontal cross section, its supporting frames shallextend directly to the ground. The roof covering of the spires shall be as required for themain room of the rest of the structure. Skeleton towers used as radio masts, neon signs, oradvertisement frames and placed on the roof of any building shall be constructed entirely ofincombustible materials when more than 7.50 meters in height, and shall be directlysupported on an incombustible framework to the ground. No such skeleton towers shall besupported on roofs of combustible framings. They shall be designed to withstand a wind loadfrom any direction in addition to any other loads.SECTION 1211. Chimneys, Fireplaces, and Barbecues1. Chimneysa. Structural Design

in accordance with generally accepted principles of engineering. Every chimney shall becapable of producing a draft at the appliance not less than that required for the safeoperation of the appliance connected thereto. No chimney shall support any structuralload other than its own weight unless it is designed to act as a supporting member.Chimneys in a wood-framed building shall be anchored laterally at the ceiling line and ateach floor line which is more than 1.80 meters above grade, except when entirely withinthe framework or when designed to be free standing.b. WallsEvery masonry chimney shall have walls of masonry units, bricks, stones, listed masonrychimney units, reinforced concrete or equivalent solid thickness of hollow masonry andlined with suitable liners in accordance with the following requirements:i.

Masonry Chimneys for Residential Type Appliances

Masonry chimneys shall be constructed of masonry units or reinforced concretewith walls not less than 100 millimeters thick; or of rubble stone masonry not lessthan 300 millimeters thick. The chimney liner shall be in accordance with the Code.

ii.

Masonry Chimneys for Low Heat Appliances

Masonry chimneys shall be constructed of masonry units or reinforced concretewith walls not less than 200 millimeters thick; Except, that rubble stone masonryshall be not less than 300 millimeters thick. The chimney liner shall be inaccordance with the Code.

iii.

Masonry Chimneys for Medium-Heat Appliances

Masonry chimneys for medium-heat appliances shall be constructed of solidmasonry units of reinforced concrete not less than 200 millimeters thick, Except,that stone masonry shall be not less than 300 millimeters thick and, in addition shallbe lined with not less than 100 millimeters of firebrick laid in a solid bed of fire claymortar with solidly filled head, bed, and wall joints, starting not less than 600millimeters below the chimney connector entrance. Chimneys extending 7.50meters or less above the chimney connector shall be lined to the top.

iv.

Masonry Chimneys for High-Heat Appliances

Masonry chimneys for high-heat appliances shall be constructed with double wallsof solid masonry units or reinforced concrete not less than 200 millimeters inthickness, with an air space of not less than 50 millimeters between walls. Theinside of the interior walls shall be of firebrick not less than 100 millimeters inthickness laid in a solid bed of fire clay mortar with solidly filled head, bed, and walljoints.

Chimneys for incinerators installed in multi-storey buildings using the chimneypassageway as a refuse chute where the horizontal grate area of combustionchamber does not exceed 0.80 sq. meter shall have walls of solid masonry orreinforced concrete, not less than 100 millimeters thick with a chimney lining asspecified in the Code. If the grate area of such an incinerator exceeds 0.80 sq.meter, the walls shall not be less than 100 millimeters of firebrick except that higher202

than 9.00 meters above the roof of the combustion chamber, common brick alone200 millimeters in thickness may be used.vi.

c.

Masonry Chimneys for Commercial and Industrial Type Incinerators

Masonry chimneys for commercial and industrial type incinerators of a size

designed for not more than 110 kilograms of refuse per hour and having ahorizontal grate area not exceeding 0.50 sq. meter shall have walls of solidmasonry or reinforced concrete not less than 100 millimeters thick with lining of notless than 100 millimeters of firebrick, which lining shall extend for not less than12.00 meters above the roof of the combustion chamber. If the design capacity ofgrate area of such an incinerator exceeds 110 kilograms per hour and 0.80 sq.meter respectively, walls shall not be less than 200 millimeters thick, lined with notles than 100 millimeters of firebrick extending the full height of the chimney.LiningsFire clay chimney lining shall not be less than 15 millimeters thick. The lining shall extendfrom 200 millimeters below the lowest inlet or, in the case of fireplace, from the throat ofthe fireplace to a point above enclosing masonry walls. Fire clay chimney linings shall beinstalled ahead of the construction of the chimney as it is carried up, carefully beddedone on the other in fire clay mortar, with close-fitting joints left smooth on the inside.Firebrick not less than 500 millimeters thick may be used in place of fire clay chimney.

d. AreaNo chimney passageway shall be smaller in area than the vent connection of theappliance attached thereto.e. HeightEvery masonry chimney shall extend at least 600 millimeters above the part of the roofthrough which it passes and at least 600 millimeters above the highest elevation of anypart of a building within 3.00 meters to the chimney.f.

CorbelingNo masonry chimney shall be corbeled from a wall more than 150 millimeters nor shall amasonry chimney be corbeled from a wall which is less than 300 millimeters in thicknessunless it projects equally on each side of the wall. In the second (2 nd) storey of a twostorey building of Group A Occupancy, corbeling of masonry chimneys on the exterior ofthe enclosing walls may equal the wall thickness. In every case the corbeling shall notexceed 25 millimeters projection for each course of brick.

g. Change in Size or Shape

No change in the size or shape of a masonry chimney shall be made within a distance of150 millimeters above or below the roof joints or rafters where the chimney passesthrough the roof.h. SeparationWhen more than one passageway is contained in the same chimney, masonry separationat least 100 millimeters thick bonded into the masonry wall of the chimney shall beprovided to separate passageways.i.

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Inlets

Every inlet to any masonry chimney shall enter the side thereof and shall be of not lessthan 3 millimeters thick metal or 16 millimeters refractory material.j. ClearanceCombustible materials shall not be placed within 50 millimeters of smoke chamber ormasonry chimney walls when built within a structure, or within 25 millimeters when thechimney is built entirely outside the structure.k. TerminationAll incinerator chimneys shall terminate in a substantially constructed spark arresterhaving a mesh not exceeding 20 millimeters.l.

CleanoutsCleanout openings shall be provided at the base of every masonry chimney.

2. Fireplaces and Barbecues

Fireplaces, barbecues, smoke chambers, and fireplace chimneys shall be of solidmasonry or reinforced concrete and shall conform to the minimum requirements specified inthe Code.a. Fireplace WallsWalls of fireplaces shall not be less than 200 millimeters in thickness. Walls of fireboxesshall not be less than 250 millimeters in thickness; Except, that where a lining of firebrickis used, such walls shall not be less than 200 millimeters in thickness. The firebox shallnot be less than 500 millimeters in depth. The maximum thickness of joints in firebrickshall be 10 millimeters.b. HoodsMetal hoods used as part of a fireplace or barbecue shall be not less than No. 18 gaugecopper, galvanized iron, or other equivalent corrosion-resistant ferrous metal with allseams and connections of smokeproof unsoldered construction. The hoods shall besloped at an angle of 45 or less from the vertical and shall extend horizontally at least150 millimeters beyond the limits of the firebox. Metal hoods shall be kept a minimum of400 millimeters from combustible materials.c.

CirculatorsApproved metal heat circulators may be installed in fireplaces.

d. Smoke ChamberFront and side walls shall not be less than 200 millimeters in thickness. Smoke chamberback walls shall not be less than 150 millimeters in thickness.e. Fireplace ChimneysWalls of chimneys without flue lining shall not be less than 200 millimeters in thickness.Walls of chimneys with flue lining shall not be less than 100 millimeters in thickness andshall be constructed in accordance with the requirements of the Code.204

f.

Clearance to Combustible Materials

Combustible materials shall not be placed within 50 millimeters of fireplace, smokechamber, or chimney walls when built entirely within a structure, or within 25 millimeterswhen the chimney is built entirely outside the structure. Combustible materials shall notbe placed within 150 millimeters of the fireplace opening. No such combustible materialwithin 300 millimeters of the fireplace opening shall project more than 3 millimeters foreach 25 millimeters clearance from such opening. No part of metal hoods used as part ofa fireplace, barbecue or heating stoves shall be less than 400 millimeters fromcombustible material. This clearance may be reduced to the minimum requirements setforth in the Code.

g. Area of Flues, Throats, and Dampers

The net cross-sectional area of the flue and of the throat between the firebox and thesmoke chamber of a fireplace shall not be less than the requirements to be set forth bythe Secretary. Where dampers are used, they shall be of not less than No. 12 gaugemetal. When fully opened, damper opening shall be not less than 90% of the requiredflue area. When fully open, damper blades shall not extend beyond the line of the innerface of the flue.h. LintelMasonry over the fireplace opening shall be supported by a non-combustible lintel.i.

HearthEvery fireplace shall be provided with a brick, concrete, stone, or other approved noncombustible hearth slab at least 300 millimeters wider on each side than the fireplaceopening and projecting at least 450 millimeters therefrom. This slab shall not be lessthan 100 millimeters thick and shall be supported by a noncombustible material orreinforced to carry its own weight and all imposed loads.

SECTION 1212. Fire-Extinguishing Systems

1. Fire-Extinguishing Systems Where required, standard automatic fire-extinguishing systemsshall be installed in the following places, and in the manner provided in the Code.a. In every storey, basement or cellar with an area of 200.00 sq. meters or more which isused for habitation, recreation, dining, study, or work, and which has an occupant load ofmore than twenty (20).b. In all dressing rooms, rehearsal rooms, workshops or factories, and other rooms with anoccupant load of more than ten (10) or assembly halls under Group H and I Occupancieswith occupant load of more than five hundred (500), and if the next doors of said roomsare more than 30.00 meters from the nearest safe fire dispersal area of the building oropening to an exit court or street.c. In all rooms used for storage or handling of photographic x-ray nitrocellulose films andother inflammable articles.2. Dry Standpipes Every building four (4) or more storeys in height shall be equipped with oneor more dry standpipes.

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a. Construction and Tests Dry standpipes shall be of wrought iron or galvanized steel andtogether with fittings and connections shall be of sufficient strength to withstand 20kilograms per square centimeter of water pressure when ready for service, withoutleaking at the joints, valves, or fittings. Tests shall be conducted by the owner or thebuilding contractor in the presence of a representative of the Building Official wheneverdeemed necessary for the purpose of certification of its proper function.b.

Size Dry standpipes shall be of such size as to be capable of delivering 900 liters ofwater per minute from each of any three (3) outlets simultaneously under the pressurecreated by one (1) fire engine or pumper based on the standard equipment available.

c.

Number Required Every building four (4) or more storeys in height where the area ofany floor above the third (3rd) floor is 950 sq. meters or less, shall be equipped with atleast one (1) dry standpipe and an additional standpipe shall be installed for eachadditional 950 sq. meters or fraction thereof.

d.

Location Standpipes shall be located within enclosed stairway landings or near suchstairways as possible or immediately inside of an exterior wall and within 300 millimetersof an opening in a stairway enclosure of the balcony or vestibule of a smokeproof toweror an outside exit stairway.

e. Siamese Connections - Subject to the provisions of subparagraph (b) all 100 millimetersdry standpipes shall be equipped with a two-way Siamese fire department connection.All 125 millimeters dry standpipes shall be equipped with a three-way Siamese firedepartment connection, and 150 millimeters dry standpipes shall be equipped with fourway Siamese fire department connections. All Siamese inlet connections shall be locatedon a street-front of the building and not less than 300 millimeters nor more than 1.20meters above the grade and shall be equipped with a clapper-checks and substantialplugs. All Siamese inlet connections shall be recessed in the wall or otherwisesubstantially protected.f. Outlets - All dry standpipes shall extend from the ground floor to and over the roof andshall be equipped with a 63 millimeters outlet nor more than 1.20 meters above the floorlevel at each storey. All dry standpipes shall be equipped with a two-way 63 millimetersoutlet above the roof. All outlets shall be equipped with gate valves.g. Signs An iron or bronze sign with raised letters at least 25 millimeters high shall berigidly attached to the building adjacent to all Siamese connections and such signs shallread: CONNECTION TO DRY STANDPIPE.3. Wet Standpipes Every Group H and I Occupancy of any height, and every Group COccupancy of two (2) more storeys in height, and every Group B, D, E, F and G Occupancyof three (3) or more storeys in height and every Group G and E Occupancy over 1800 sq.meters in area shall be equipped with one or more interior wet standpipes extending from thecellar or basement into the topmost storey; Provided, that Group H buildings having no stageand having a seating capacity of less than five hundred (500) need not be equipped withinterior wet standpipes.a. Construction Interior wet standpipes shall be constructed of the same materials asthose required for dry standpipes.b. Sizei.

Interior wet standpipes shall have an internal diameter sufficient to deliver 190 litersof water per minute under 2.00 kilograms per square centimeter pressure at thehose connections. Buildings of Group H and I Occupancy shall have wet206

standpipes systems capable of delivering the required quantity and pressure fromany two (2) outlets simultaneously; for all other Occupancies only one (1) outletneed be figured to be opened at one time. In no case shall the internal diameter ofa wet standpipe be less than 50 millimeters, except when the standpipe is attachedto an automatic fire-extinguishing system.ii.

Any approved formula which determines pipe sizes on a pressure drop basis maybe used to determine pipe size for wet standpipe systems. The Building Officialmay require discharge capacity and pressure tests on completed wet standpipesystems.

c. Number required The number of wet standpipes when required in the Code shall be sodetermined that all portions of the building are within 6.00 meters of a nozzle attached toa hose 23.00 meters in length.d. Location In Group H and I Occupancies, outlets shall be located as follows: one (1) oneach side of the stage, one (1) at the rear of the auditorium, and one (1) at the rear of thebalcony. Where occupant loads are less than five hundred (500) the above requirementsmay be waived; Provided, that portable fire extinguishers of appropriate capacity andtype are installed within easy access from the said locations. In Group B, C, D, E, F andG Occupancies, the location of all interior wet standpipes shall be in accordance with therequirement for dry standpipes; Provided, that at least one (1) standpipe is installed tocover not more than 650 sq. meters.e. Outlets. All interior wet standpipes shall be equipped with a 38 millimeter valve in eachstorey, including the basement or cellar of the building, and located not less than 300millimeters nor more than 1.20 meters above the floor.f.

Threads. All those threads used in connection with the installation of such standpipes,including valves and reducing fittings shall be uniform with that prescribed by theSecretary.

g. Water Supply. All interior wet standpipes shall be connected to a street main not lessthan 100 millimeters in diameter, or when the water pressure is insufficient, to a watertank of sufficient size as provided in subparagraph (h). When more than one (1) interiorwet standpipe is required in the building, such standpipe shall be connected at theirbases or at their tops by pipes of equal size.h. Pressure and Gravity Tanks Tanks shall have a capacity sufficient to furnish at least1,500 liters per minute for a period of not less than 10 minutes. Such tanks shall belocated so as to provide not less than 2 kilograms per square centimeter pressure at thetopmost base outlet for its entire supply. Discharge pipes from pressure tanks shallextend 50 millimeters into and above the bottom of such tanks. All tanks shall be testedin place after installation and proved tight at a hydrostatic pressure 50% in excess of theworking pressure required. Where such tanks are used for domestic purposes the supplypipe for such purposes shall be located at or above the center line of such tanks.Incombustible supports shall be provided for all such supply tanks and not less than a900 millimeters clearance shall be maintained over the top and under the bottom of allpressure tanks.i. Fire pumps. Fire pumps shall have a capacity of not less than 1,000 liters per minute witha pressure not less than 2 kilograms per square centimeter at the topmost hose outlet.The source of supply for such pump shall be a street water main of not less than 100millimeters diameter or a well or cistern containing a one-hour supply. Such pumps shallbe supplied with an adequate source of power and shall be automatic in operation.

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j.

Hose and Hose Reels Each hose outlet of all interior wet standpipes shall be suppliedwith a hose not less than 38 millimeters in diameter. Such hose shall be equipped with asuitable brass or bronze nozzle and shall be not over 23.00 meters in length. Anapproved standard form of wall hose reel or rack shall be provided for the hose and shallbe located so as to make the hose readily accessible at all times and shall be recessed inthe walls or protected by suitable cabinets.

4. Basement Pipe Inlets Basement pipe inlets shall be installed in the first (1 st) floor of everystore, warehouse, or factory where there are cellars or basements under same; Except,where in such cellars or basements there is installed a fire-extinguishing system as specifiedin the Code or where such cellars or basements are used for banking purposes, safe depositvaults, or similar uses.

a.

Material All basement pipe inlets shall be of cast iron, steel, brass, or bronze with lids ofcast brass or bronze and shall consist of a sleeve not less than 200 millimeters indiameter through the floor extending to and flush with the ceiling below and with a topflange, recessed with an inside shoulder, to receive the lid and flush with the finished floorsurface. The lid shall be a solid casting and shall have a ring lift recessed on the topthereof, so as to be flushed. The lid shall have the words FOR FIRE DEPARTMENTONLY, DO NOT COVER UP cast on the top thereof. The lid shall be installed in such amanner as to permit its removal readily from the inlet.

b. Location. Basement pipe inlets shall be strategically located and kept readily accessibleat all times to the Fire Department.5. Approval All fire-extinguishing systems, including automatic sprinklers, wet and drystandpipes, automatic chemical extinguishers, basement pipe inlets, and the appurtenancesthereto shall meet the approval of the Fire Department as to installation and location and shallbe subject to such periodic test as it may require.SECTION 1213. Stages and Platform1. Stage Ventilators There shall be one (1) or more ventilators constructed of metal or otherincombustible material near the center and above the highest part of any working stageraised above the stage roof and having a total ventilation area equal to at least 5% of the floorarea within the stage walls.The entire equipment shall conform to the followingrequirements:a. Opening Action Ventilators shall open by spring action or force of gravity sufficient toovercome the effects of neglect, rust, dirt, or expansion by heat or warping of theframework.b. Glass Glass, if used in ventilators, must be protected against falling on the stage. Awire screen, if used under the glass, must be so placed that if clogged it cannot reducethe required ventilating area or interfere with the operating mechanism or obstruct thedistribution of water from the automatic fire extinguishing systems.c.

Design Ventilators, penthouses, and supporting framework shall be designed in

50% of their rated capacity and shall not be located directly in the air stream, norexposed to elements.e. Location of Fusible Links A fusible link shall be placed in the cable control system onthe underside of the ventilator at or above the roof line or as approved by the BuildingOfficial, and shall be so located as not to be affected by the operation of fire-extinguishingsystems.f.

Control Remote, manual or electrical control shall provide for both opening and closingof the ventilator doors for periodic testing and shall be located at a point on the stagedesignated by the Building Official. When remote control of ventilator is electrical, powerfailure shall not affect its instant operation in the event of fire. Hand winches may beemployed to facilitate operation of manually controlled ventilators.

2. Gridirons a. Gridirons, fly galleries, and pin-rails shall be constructed of incombustible materials andfire protection of steel and iron may be omitted. Gridirons and fly galleries shall bedesigned to support a live load of not less than 367 kilograms per sq. meter. Each loftblock well shall be designed to support 373 kilograms per linear meter and the headblock well shall be designed to support the aggregate weight of all the loft block wellsserved. The head block well must be provided with an adequate strongback or lateralbrace to offset torque.b. The main counterweight sheave beam shall be designed to support a horizontal andvertical uniformly distributed live load sufficient to accommodate the weight imposed bythe total number of loft blocks in the gridiron. The sheave blocks shall be designed toaccommodate the maximum load for the loft or head blocks served with a safety factor offive (5).3. Rooms Accessory to Stage In a building having a stage, the dressing room sections,workshops, and storerooms shall be located on the stage side of the proscenium wall andshall be separated from each other and from the stage by not less than a One-Hour FireResistive Occupancy Separation.4. Proscenium Walls A stage shall be completely separated from the auditorium by aproscenium wall of not less than two-hour incombustible construction. The proscenium wallshall extend not less than 1.20 meters above the roof over the auditorium. Proscenium wallsmay have, in addition to the main proscenium openings, one (1) opening at the orchestra pitlevel and not more than two (2) openings at the stage floor level, each of which shall be notmore than 2.00 sq. meters in area. All openings in the proscenium wall of stage shall beprotected by a fire assembly having a one and one-half - hour fire-resistive rating. Theproscenium opening, which shall be the main opening for viewing performances, shall beprovided with a self-closing fire-resistive curtain as specified in the Code.5. Stage Floor The type of construction for stage floors shall depend upon the requirementsbased on the Type of Occupancy and the corresponding fire-resistive requirements. All partsof the stage floor shall be designed to support not less than 620 kilograms per square meters.Openings through stage floors shall be equipped with tight-fitting trap doors of wood of notless than 50 millimeters nominal thickness.6. Platforms The type of construction for platforms shall depend upon the requirements basedon the Type of Occupancy and corresponding fire-resistive requirements. Enclosed platformsshall be provided with one (1) or more ventilators conforming to the requirements of stageventilators; Except, that the total area shall be equal to 5% of the area of the platform. When

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more than one (1) ventilator is provided, they shall be so spaced as to provide proper exhaustventilation. Ventilators shall not be required for enclosed platforms having a floor area of45.00 sq. meters or less.7. Stage Exits At least one (1) exit not less than 900 millimeters wide shall be provided fromeach side of the stage opening directly or by means of a passageway not less than 900millimeters in width to a street or exit court. An exit stair not less than 750 millimeters wideshall be provided for egress from each fly gallery. Each tier of dressing rooms shall beprovided with at least two (2) means of egress each not less than 750 millimeters wide and allsuch stairs shall be constructed in accordance with the requirement specified in the Code.The stairs required in this Sub-section need not be enclosed.

SECTION 1214. Motion Picture Projection Rooms

1. General Requirements The provisions of this Section shall apply only where ribbon typemotion picture films in excess of 22-millimeter width and electric projection equipment areused. Every motion picture machine using ribbon type film in excess of 22 millimeter widthand electric arc projections equipment, together with all electrical devices, rheostats,machines, and all such films present in any Group C, I, or H Occupancy, shall be enclosed ina projection room large enough to permit the operator to walk freely on either side and backof the machine.2. Construction Every projection room shall be of not les than one-hour fire-resistiveconstruction throughout and the walls and ceiling shall be finished with incombustiblematerials. The ceiling shall be not less than 2.40 meters from the finished floor. The roomshall have a floor area of not less than 7.00 sq. meters and 3.50 sq. meters for eachadditional machine.3. Exit Every projection room shall have at least two doorways separated by not less thanone-third the perimeter of the room, each at least 750 millimeters wide and 2.00 meters high.All entrances to a projection room shall be protected by a self-closing fire assembly having athree-fourth - hour fire-resistive rating. Such doors shall open outward and lead to properexits as required in the Code and shall not be equipped with any latch. The maximum widthof such door shall be 750 millimeters.4.

Ports and Openings Ports in projection room walls shall be of three (3) kinds: projectionports; observation ports; and combination ports used for both observation and forstereopticon, spot or floodlight machines.a. Ports Required There shall be provided for each motion picture projector not more thanone (1) projection port, which shall be limited in area to 750 sq. centimeters, and notmore than one (1) observation port, which shall be limited in area to 1,300 sq.centimeters. There shall be not more than three (3) combination ports, each of whichshall not exceed 750 millimeters by 600 millimeters. Each port opening shall becompletely covered with a pane of glass; Except, that when acetate safety film is used,projection ports may be increased in size to an area not to exceed 4,500 sq. centimeters.b. Shutters Each port and every other opening in projection room walls, including, anyfresh-air inlets but excluding exit doors and exhaust ducts, shall be provided with ashutter of not less than 2.4 millimeters thick sheet metal or its equivalent large enough tooverlap at least 25 millimeters on all sides of such openings. Shutters shall be arrangedto slide without binding in guides constructed of material equal to the shutters in strengthand fire-resistance. Each shutter shall be equipped with a 74 fusible link, which when210

fused by heat will cause closure of the shutter by gravity. Shutters of a size greater than1,300 sq. centimeters shall be equipped with a counter-balance. There shall also be afusible link located over the upper magazine of each projector, which upon operating, willclose all the shutters. In addition, there shall be provided suitable means for manuallyclosing all shutters simultaneously from any projector head and from a point within theprojection room near each exit door. Shutters on openings not in use shall be keptclosed; Except, that shutters may be omitted when only acetate safety film is used.5. Ventilationa. Inlet A fresh-air inlet from the exterior of the building not less than 900 sq. centimetersand protected with wire netting, shall be installed within 50 millimeters of the floor in everyprojection room, the source of which shall be remote from other outside vents or flues.b. Outlets Ventilation shall be provided by one (1) or more mechanical exhaust systemswhich shall draw air from each arc lamp housing to out-doors either directly or through anincombustible flue used for no other purpose. Exhaust capacity shall not be less than0.50 cu. meter nor more than 1.40 cu. meter per minute for each arc lamp plus 5.60 cu.meters for the room itself. Systems shall be controlled from within the enclosure andshall have pilot lights to indicate operation. The exhaust systems serving the projectionroom may be extended to cover rooms associated therewith such as rewind rooms. Nodampers shall be installed in such exhaust systems. Ventilation of these rooms shall notbe connected in any way with ventilating or air-conditioning systems serving otherportions of the building. Exhaust ducts shall be of incombustible material and shall eitherbe kept 25 millimeters from combustible material or covered with 10 millimeters ofincombustible heat-insulating material.6. Regulation of Equipment All shelves, fixtures, and fixed equipment in a projection roomshall be constructed of incombustible materials. All films not in actual use shall be stored inmetal cabinets having individual compartments for reels or shall be in generally acceptedshipping containers. No solder shall be used in the construction of such cabinets.SECTION 1215. Lathing, Plastering, and Installation of Wall BoardsThe installation of lath, plaster and gypsum wall board shall conform to the fire-resistiverating requirements and the type of construction of building.